Yes, you can put raw garlic in a slow cooker, but it's essential to use it judiciously to avoid overpowering the dish with its pungent flavor. Here are some tips for using raw garlic in a slow cooker:
Minimize the amount: Since garlic's flavor can intensify during slow cooking, use it in moderation. One or two cloves are often enough to add a subtle garlic taste to the whole dish.
Proper preparation: Consider mincing or finely chopping the garlic before adding it to the slow cooker. This will help distribute the flavor more evenly throughout the dish.
Add it at the right time: For best results, add the minced garlic during the last 30 minutes to 1 hour of cooking. This will prevent it from becoming too bitter or overwhelming.
Use whole cloves with meat: If you're cooking a large piece of meat, you can insert whole garlic cloves into the meat. The slow cooking process will mellow out the garlic's sharpness while infusing the meat with a mild garlic flavor.
Experiment with roasted garlic: For a milder and sweeter garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic. Roasted garlic has a soft and buttery texture, making it a delicious addition to many slow cooker recipes.
Remember that slow cooking tends to enhance flavors, so it's best to err on the side of caution when adding raw garlic to your slow cooker dishes. This way, you can achieve a well-balanced and enjoyable flavor profile in your meal.